Powerpoint Pictures: Disneyland; Bungee Jump; Safari; Great Wall of China; White Water Rafting; Dolphins; Formula 1 Car; Sunset over Ayres Rock; Astronaut in Space

Have you heard of the Bucket List?  It is a list people have of things they would like to do in their lifetime.  Some of the things lots of people want to do include: visit Walt Disney World in Florida, do a bungee jump, go on safari, walk the Great Wall of China, go white water rafting, swim with dolphins, drive a Formula 1 car, catch the sunset over Ayres Rock, and travel into space.

A short time after Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph took him to Jerusalem to present Him to God.  While they were there they met a man who had a bucket list, but it had on it only one item.

The man’s name was Simeon, and this was what was on his list.  “It had been revealed to [Simeon] by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” (Luke 2:26)

Simeon wanted to see the one who God had promised, the King who would save His people.  When he saw the baby Jesus, Simeon praised God saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.  For my eyes have seen your salvation.” (Luke 2:29-30)

Simeon recognised that this baby was the promised Saviour and King who as the angel told the shepherds, would be good news for the whole world.  He could tick the item off his bucket list now.

Simeon recognised who Jesus is.  He wasn’t the only one as we will see.

Find out who else next time!